Targeting a specific gene to treat a type of leukemia

Therapeutic targeting of an oncogenic translational program in AML

NIH-funded research Versiti Wisconsin, INC. · NIH-11132428

This study is testing a new treatment called AI-10-49 for people with acute myeloid leukemia who have a specific genetic change that makes their condition harder to treat, and it aims to help these patients live longer by killing leukemia cells and working better with other medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVersiti Wisconsin, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11132428 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a specific genetic alteration in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) known as inv(16), which leads to poor patient outcomes. The team has developed a small molecule inhibitor called AI-10-49 that disrupts the interaction between the oncogene CBFβ-SMMHC and a critical transcription factor, RUNX1. By inducing cell death in leukemia cells, this treatment aims to improve survival rates for patients with this specific genetic mutation. The research also explores combining AI-10-49 with another inhibitor to overcome drug resistance, enhancing the effectiveness of the therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia characterized by the inv(16) genetic alteration.

Not a fit: Patients with acute myeloid leukemia who do not have the inv(16) mutation may not benefit from this specific treatment approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a targeted therapy that significantly improves survival rates for patients with inv(16) acute myeloid leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with targeted therapies in leukemia, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.